HPBA Celebrates National Fireplace Month, and Promotes Fireplace Safety and Cleaner Burning Appliances in October

1 October 2019

Throughout October, National Fireplace Month, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association is helping consumers prepare for the height of fireplace––and freestanding stove––season by emphasizing fireplace safety and promoting cleaner burning appliances. The crispness of fall air is a reminder that the colder weather and holidays are coming, a chance to spend quality time with family and friends around a glowing fire.

HPBA will be participating in Fire Prevention Week from October 9–15. Some tips for enjoying fireplaces and hearth products safely:

Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of furniture, books, newspapers, and other potentially flammable materials. Three feet away is a good rule.
Have the chimney inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a professional to ensure it’s clear of obstructions and creosote to prevent a fire.
Make family members and guests aware that the glass panel of a gas fireplace, stove, or insert can be very hot. Installing a safety screen or safety barrier is recommended to reduce the risk of serious burns by preventing direct contact with hot glass.
Have a technician check the gas lines, clean the burner and control compartment as well as check for condensation annually.
If burning vent-free logs for more than an hour, crack a window open. If using vented logs, clamp your fireplace damper into the open position so it never closes while burning.

On October 19, HPBA will also be participating in the fourth-annual National Bioenergy Day to increase awareness about just how cleanly wood and pellet appliances burn. Spearheaded by the Biomass Power Association, HPBA is pleased to help fund the event.

HPBA’s October activities are part of a larger effort through February 2017 to educate consumers about the array of fireplace, stove, and other product options available. HPBA will be featuring tips and general information throughout the hearth season on both its Facebook and Twitter channels. Later in 2016, HPBA is releasing its upgraded website with an enhanced area for consumers to find safety tips and learn about the different types of products, and more.

Market research is another way that HPBA provides public education for the hearth industry. On September 16, HPBA released key findings of its biannual survey of decision-making homeowners: the 2016 Hearth Ownership and Market Potential Study. Balanced against the U.S. Census, the study was implemented by surveying homeowners throughout North America on their experiences in relation to factory-built fireplaces, stoves, and fireplace inserts.

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